Italian Language Tests: What Level Are You?

Have you been learning Italian for a while and don’t know what level you’re at? In Europe, we divide language proficiency into six main levels, which are called the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). These levels are typically referred to as:

  • A1 – Beginner: Basic understanding for everyday situations, limited vocabulary, and simple sentences.
  • A2 – Elementary: Increased vocabulary, improved comprehension, and ability to express oneself in everyday situations.
  • B1 – Intermediate: Intermediate level of fluency, understanding more complex texts and conversations, and participating in discussions.
  • B2 – Upper Intermediate: A good command of the language, capable of handling a wide range of topics, and engaging in more in-depth conversations.
  • C1 – Advanced: Advanced proficiency, understanding complex texts and abstract concepts, and expressing opinions fluently.
  • C2 – Mastery: Near-native or native-level proficiency, able to handle complex materials and discussions, and communicate effectively in all situations.

These levels serve as a guideline to measure one’s proficiency in Italian, and many language programs and exams use them to assess language skills. Would you like to test your proficiency? Try these tests.

What does A1 mean? 

A1 is the first level of language acquisition. At this level, you can express yourself using the basics of the Italian language such as the present simple and past simple tenses, modal verbs, reflexive verbs, and simple pronouns. You can talk about your everyday life and ask simple questions about the weather, time, and free time. You can also use the most common adjectives and understand the most common Italian questions and verbs.

Take your test here.

What does A2 mean? 

A2 is the second level of language acquisition. At this level, you can express yourself using more advanced patterns of the Italian language, such as the imperfect and future tenses, the conditional and imperative modes. You’ll have a better grasp of direct and indirect pronouns, and you’ll make better use of prepositions. You should be able to describe photos and talk about your work, family, and free time. Additionally, at this level, you should be able to read a basic language dialogue or text and summarize it in your own words. At this is level, you’re also expected to common basic questions.

Take your test here.

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